Cultural Heritage — hospitality, majlis, and traditions of togetherness

The UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity added Majlis in 2015. This recognition highlights UAE’s rich cultural heritage – hospitality, majlis, and traditions that bring people together. These traditional gathering spaces are the foundations of Emirati life. They have connected communities and preserved culture across generations.

“Majlis” means “council” or “assembly” in Arabic. People gather in these spaces to talk about local events, share news, welcome guests, and spend time together. Different types of Arabic majlis exist. Elders, chieftains, and sheikhs run special ones called “barza”. Women host their own majlis gatherings, which often focus on academic or literary discussions. The unique seating layout in a majlis creates an open and equal environment. This was clear in places like the Majlis of the Merchants, where pearl divers found support and funding for their trips. These social spaces continue to be powerful cultural symbols. They showcase Arabian hospitality before any business talks and help communities form, grow, and thrive.

Hospitality as a Cultural Pillar in the Arab World

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Arab hospitality means much more than being polite – it’s a sacred duty woven into the cultural fabric. This practice started with Bedouin traditions and became a way to survive in the harsh desert. People had to give shelter, food, and protection to travelers so communities could exist.

Karam (generosity) is the life-blood of Arab hospitality. People believe showing exceptional kindness and honor to guests is their moral duty. Islamic teachings strengthen these values throughout the region and transform hospitality from a custom into a spiritual act.

Guests receive a warm ceremonial welcome with smiles, handshakes, and sometimes hugs. The host serves refreshments right away. Arabic coffee (gahwa) and dates stand as the classic symbols of welcome. The coffee comes with cardamom and saffron in small cups (finjan). Dates help balance the coffee’s bitter taste.

The majlis serves as the heart of hospitality in Gulf states. This dedicated guest space brings people together and strengthens community bonds. Abu Dhabi emirate has 68 official majlises. Abu Dhabi city houses 30, Al Ain region has 32, and Al Dhafra contains 6.

The UAE’s hospitality culture flows from homes into public spaces. The country welcomes visitors from every background with genuine respect and generosity.

Majlis: The Heart of Community Life

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The Arabic majlis is the heart of community life where traditional values and social bonds come together naturally. More than just a meeting place, it creates a space for community members to discuss local happenings, solve conflicts, and share life’s important moments.

The room’s layout perfectly matches its community purpose. Low, cozy seating forms U or L shapes that aid conversation, while soft cushions and ornate carpets help everyone relax and open up. The sweet smell of incense (bakhoor) from a mabkhara fills the air and creates a welcoming, respectful atmosphere.

The majlis is a vital part of passing down knowledge and keeping traditions alive. Children learn community values, conversation skills, and proper manners just by watching adults during these gatherings. There’s an old Arabic saying that captures this perfectly: “Al Majlis Madaris” (The Majlis are schools).

These spaces host everything from wedding celebrations to funeral gatherings and business deals. The community’s elders share their deep knowledge of tribal history, family trees, and the natural world. Judges and religious leaders help settle disagreements. The majlis also brings joy through entertainment, poetry, and storytelling that keeps cultural arts alive for future generations.

Preserving Traditions in a Modern World

Traditional practices in contemporary Gulf societies continue to adapt rather than disappear. The majlis has expanded beyond its original role as a physical gathering space and now exists in both real and virtual forms. This adaptation reflects changing lifestyles while preserving its cultural importance.

Modern Kuwaiti homes demonstrate this progress perfectly. Global design influences have reshaped the majlis, but haven’t eliminated it. Sleek sofas and minimalist décor have replaced traditional carpeted rooms with floor cushions, yet the space’s core purpose stays the same. A Riyadh-based tech entrepreneur notes, “It’s not about abandoning tradition, but transforming it to suit today’s lifestyle”.

Digital platforms have adopted the majlis concept. Young Gulf residents have found new ways to connect over the last several years. They use video calls and messaging platforms along with face-to-face meetings. In spite of that, people still value personal interactions highly—a study found that 33.3% of participants regularly attend majlis gatherings.

Qatar’s Nomas Center plays a vital role in preserving these traditions through educational programs. Children learn majlis etiquette, traditional coffee preparation, and cultural heritage in two-week courses. Even tech-savvy teens naturally follow customs like using their right hand to pass tea.

The majlis shows remarkable cultural resilience by adapting without losing its core values. These spaces serve as connections between generations throughout the Gulf region and allow cultural practices to adapt naturally in this ever-changing world.